KCP&L Seeking Rate Increase

KANSAS CITY - Kansas City Power & Light is seeking to raise electric rates for its Kansas customers.

KCP&L has asked the Kansas Corporation Commission to approve the rate hike, which the utility says would help pay its share of a $1.2 billion environmental upgrade for the coal-fired La Cygne power plant in Kansas.

If approved by the KCC, the increase would raise Kansas customers' rates 2.3 percent or $12.1 million a year. The Kansas City Star reports a typical residential customer would be charged an additional $2.35 month.

The KCC has eight months to consider the request.

KCP&L's Missouri customers will also see their rates go up to pay for the plant's environmental work, but under Missouri rules a rate hike can't be requested until the upgrade is completed.